The purpose for the Xarelto is primarily to prevent a stroke (CVA). There's always a possibility that even though you are on antiarryhthmic meds or have had a cardio versions or ablations you can still convert back into atrial fib or flutter. This is the reason I was instructed to stay on my blood thinner for the rest of my life. I don't like the bruising issues it causes but absolutely do not want to experience a CVA. I'm an old RN and have seen too many of these, therefore, I've decided to take it every single day forever.